Planting time. Kohlrabi is a cool-weather crop. Sow kohlrabi seed in the garden 3 to 4 weeks before the last average frost date in spring. Kohlrabi requires 45 to 60 days to reach maturity and should be grown so that it comes to harvest before temperatures average greater than 75°F (23.9°C). In warm winter regions, sow kohlrabi in late summer for winter harvest. Kohlrabi can withstand an early autumn frost. In cold winter regions, sow kohlrabi in summer for early autumn harvest.

Water and feeding. Keep soil evenly moist for quick growth. Kohlrabi that goes without water will become woody. Prepare planting beds with aged compost. Side dress kohlrabi with aged compost at midseason.

Container. Kohlrabi is large rooted and not well suited for container growing.

Pests. Kohlrabi can be attacked by cutworms, cabbage loopers, and imported cabbage worms. Place collars around stems to protect seedlings from cutworm damage. Remove egg clusters from underneath leaves and wash plants with dilute soap solution. Cabbage worms can be controlled by spraying with bacillus thuringiensis.